The 38th World Diamond Congress, the biennial meeting of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) and the International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA), began on Tuesday (October 23) in Mumbai.

Millennial group to host breakfast reception at IJL

A networking group for millennials in the jewellery industry will today host a breakfast networking event International Jewellery London (IJL), giving generation Y the chance to become part of the initiative.

The millennials network is inviting all young professionals to come along to find out more about the group and what it has to offer, alongside the chance to register for an invite-only event in October.

The reception runs from 11am to 1pm at the National Association of Jewellers stand (J20) and will be hosted by group members Britni-May Edwards, Millie Knight, James Veale and Raphael Simmons.

Founding committee member, Edwards said: “I’m really eager to see the growth of this group, we already have members that represent a great cross section of professionals within the trade, so being at IJL is a perfect opportunity to engage with more like-minded, enthusiastic millennials.

“It is essential to recognise the need for strength and support for individuals in any industry, especially one as unique as ours. The jewellery trade has alluring heritage and an equally alluring future that cannot be ignored. How we can learn and grow together is important.”

The group was founded by diamond dealer Danielle Chib, who recognised the growth of millennials within the industry workforce and set out to find equally passionate young professionals who shared her goal to establish a support network for those within the industry.

Founded in June this year, the networking initiative launched with an inaugural event that saw 50 members gather in London, sponsored by jewellery care specialists, Connoisseurs.

Founding committee member, Simmons added: “It is important to ensure the traditions and strengths of the industry are carried forward into the next generation of jewellers and business owners. The group gives young jewellers a platform to network with peers in an informal environment who may otherwise feel they have no support network.

“Outside of jewellery retail, there are currently very few networking opportunities, so we are reaching out – especially to designers, lone-workers and those from a trade and jobbing backround.”

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